Raz – Page 6 – Razflections

March 28, 2009April 2, 2009

Bon Jour Montreal

We arrived in Montreal on Wednesday night, with a bit of a prolonged adventure what with our RGL and NGL experience which I already addressed in another blog post.

Thursday was a day of meetings regarding the Univera/Matol integration, with lots of leadership from Bijan and Jonathan. I can’t mention all the names of the great Univera Matol people, but each are very talented and make an incredible addition to our team.

Friday was the big celebration, the official ribbon cutting ceremony for the acquisition of a new partner. It’s a great addition to our Company strategically and structurally, we have gained some great teammates, much excitement, as well as resources that will help us along our path to success.

There were dignitaries at the event, as well as ECONET and Univera Exec’s, along with Bill Lee himself who gave a humorous yet heartfelt ceremonial speech tying in a cute story about arranged marriages and how he, within one day, felt completely comfortable with this arrangement given the quality of the people, the resources, and the products.

Over 150 people were in attendance at this event, many of whom were Univera associates. And, as good as the party and celebration was, a certain section became all the more lively as a few of the Exec’s took over the duty of serving drinks and tending bar.

The highlight for me? The people.

The people in Matol, now Univera, who are dedicated and committed toexcellence and supporting our plans while also helping to significantly grow the business. The Matol field leaders, who have, in their words, waited years for an opportunity like this–and they feel strongly at home. And the Univera corporate and field team, many of whom were able to participate (Dave Nash, though, was unable to attend due to a birth of their son!!! Congrats Dave, we missed you!) over the days festivities.

And if all that weren’t enough, the Univera/Matol office has a really cool Flavia coffeemaker where you can get as many single shots as you want.

Today was a “Super Saturday” field event led by MANY of our AMAZING Canadian leaders–whose names I can’t all write down but special thanks to Andre, Anne, Louis, Sylvie, Gille, and so many many others for making this a great success. I know there are people I’m not listing, please know we appreciate everything you did and do to make these events so fantastic.

Over 300 people at this event, an INCREDIBLE turnout particularly considering that two days before there were about 500 people that went to a Halifax event (therefore most of those didn’t travel to Montreal). Special speakers included Bill Lee, our owner, Stuart Ochiltree CEO of ECONET, and Robert Bolduc CEO of Matol, and Univera exec’s and field leaders.

Most important were the many Univera associates leading and participating in the event, and I believe for well over HALF the audience this was their very first Univera event. And a good 100 people raised their hands and were already committed to going to our June Convention this year.

A really great day. Energy. Excitement. Business success. Product testimonials. Purpose. Heart. A real blast, for all of us.

Thanks, Montreal, for such a great stay–we hope to come back again soon.

And as I blog this I am riding in the car en route to Portland, Maine.

Stephen’s driving, while wholly testing the limits of this little Pontiac while other passengers in this care are testing the use of the word “wholly” in another spelling and context. But, we are nearing our destination and apart from all the “watch out for bears and moose” signs that are giving a bit of angina I think we will arrive in tact.

Albeit two hours later than we should have. There is much dispute around exactly WHY we took a route that was two hours longer. Some believe it is because of faulty GPS, others believe it due to malfunctioning teamwork, and yet others think it’s because of bad direction. It seems it’s impossible to get true clarity on this, but for now we’ve agreed to sleep on it and readdress in the morning.

This ride is actually quite restful. And Regan is particularly quiet, there’s no heckling or jokestering from the back seat, I expect because he is wearing headphones and using his iPhone–perhaps to watch another South Park. Had I known this was such a solitude inducer for our journeys I would have personally purchased a set of headphones for him over a year ago. 🙂

As Regan watches South Park, Stephen’s doing these really loud nasal breathing exercises (I am afraid he is going to hyperventilate on this so an intercession might be necessary–please support me on this), and I’m pounding away on the keyboard at about an 80 decibel on my second battery which is almost kaput, stopping every few minutes to share a new thing I’ve learned on the news wires (by the way, did you know that drinking very hot tea increases your risk of throat cancer? Let it cool a bit first).

We each have our quirks. Stephen and Regan, more than most. 🙂 Truly, we’ve had a great time together.

So it’s officially day one, and we’re off to Portland to meet some of the Univera leaders for a great dinner at J’s Oyster House downtown, followed by the Portland event tomorrow afternoon.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all when. What is the most significant data you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 27, 2009March 31, 2009

Leaving On a Jet Plane

What a great song, it was perfect for this past Wednesday morning as a departure song but it was trumped by my gate experience that day.

Since it’s the first official start of the Road Tour tomorrow morning I’ll use this as my beginning post for our many-city tour across North America to share the good news about Univera, these incredible products, an amazing business opportunity, and our culture.

John Denver was such an amazing artist, there’s a great blog entry to be made about him but for now I’ll let the words in the song do the talking (unfortunately this YouTube version gets clipped at the end).

Looking forward to seeing many of you on the Road Tour, and if not please participate via the blog and writing comments. Go Montreal!!!

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant data you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 26, 2009March 26, 2010

Happy 4th Birthday Buddy

The reason I write in my blog is to connect with people. Not just from one segment of life, but from many.

And as part of the thread of stories I try to share experiences and observations in leadership, volunteerism, wellness, as well as some stories that are simply personal experiences that fall in none of those particular categories and, might, at times, be more personal.

Today’s entry is one of those. So if the personal aspect is too much, please skip this one today.

I write tonight sitting 3,000 miles away from Erica and my girls, celebrating in spirit the birthday of our son Levi. Who, five years ago today, was born and also died several hours later due to prematurity and a systemic infection that could not be avoided or treated.

Levi, my little friend, I’m not sure if Heaven is wired with Web 2.0, social networking, and blogs along with 802.11N Wifi. Maybe up there you’re on Web 10.0 and we’re just catching up. I’m not sure if you’re yet able to read, if you’re learning to read, perhaps someone is reading to you, or whether you’re even still a youth or not. Somehow, though, I think you will get this message in some way.

Raz Fam celebrating Levi's 2nd Birthday — Raz Fam celebrating Levi's 2nd Birth.

Today I just wanted to acknowledge my appreciation and love for you–especially because I’m on business travel and away from the rest of your family on this special day. I wish you were here so we could celebrate, even if remotely. And if you were here tonight I would call you on a Skype video, sing Happy Birthday to you, tell you how proud I am of you…I’d tell you how I’d take you out for cake and ice cream when I got back home, and we would do the things that dads and sons do–things like wrestle and horseplay on my return visit. We’d probably even break something valuable in the living room. 🙂 But it would be okay, because you would be with me–and I would be with you. And mom would look at us and smile with a look of “You boys…” and Royce and Zoe would be cackling and laughing in the background, all while trying to wrestle with us as well. Levi, we would have had a lot of fun–and I miss you.

Yet, as strange as this may sound, I am certain that God’s got all of those fun activities figured out for you–and more–right where you are.

It is rare that I can look at our family and see only four people; it generally feels like you are missing, and while some of the days that pass make missing you–and what I never got to know of you–easier, never will it be forgotten or a substitute for what a life with you in our family every day could have been like.

So, today’s posting is a simple one.

It’s just an open letter to you wishing you a Happy Fourth Birthday. To let you know that we all miss you so much, and I know we would be so proud of you on this day, yet we also have a sincere contentment that everything works out according to a plan.

It’s just that today, and at this very moment, I really don’t like the way this plan has worked out–even though I know it is for the best.

Happy Birthday my little friend, we miss you so much and I will see you someday soon.

-Dad

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all period. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 25, 2009March 29, 2009

A Tale of Two Gates

Travel can be a lot of fun, albeit in doses. And I certainly prefer personal over business, as a lot of the road wears on you and in many ways that people who don’t have to travel simply do not realize or appreciate. But it can also be very rewarding and the experiences provide so much learning along the way.

An old football coach of mine used to carry the quote by someone (unknown to me) which was “You’ll be the same person ten years from now that you are today except for the people you meet and the books you read.”

Largely, I think that’s true.

So I try to do a lot of reading. And, particularly on trips, I try to make it an intentional point to make the best of each adventure and learn something along the way—particularly from the people that I meet.

So I’m checking in around 6am on WorstWest Airlilnes, a carrier that I simply do not like and is generally notorious for poor service. So as I’m checking in, the two people behind the desk are throwing verbal assaults like left and right hooks at each other. Honestly, I was in shock.

Employees fighting or undermining each other in front of customers is among the childish as well as recklessly irresponsible behaviors. So I try not to be annoyed, I mean I really tried, I smile and manage to squeeze out a “thank you” as politely as possible despite standing there at the desk for five minutes waiting for these two cranks to quit their bickering, all while cringing to think about the impact this behavior has on customers as well as others in their organization.

We board the flight to Montreal, I actually sleep for a few hours which is quite rare for me—generally I love the cabin time for solitude, writing, and reading. I did read a bit in the book “They Call Me Coach” by John Wooden, as well as jammed through about seven old Wall Street Journals.

Upon arriving we’re probably a half hour late into our transfer city of Minneapolis, but there’s seven of us on the plane continuing onto Montreal so I’m certain they’ll hold the next puddle jumper for us. Certain. 100%. I mean, what idiot wouldn’t hold the gate when 25% of your cabin (remember, puddle jumper) isn’t there but only a few minutes away. Right?

We run to the gate, only to find the doors are closed. One person made it, from row 19 on our first leg. We, unfortunately, were in rows 35 and above. So, yes, the back of the plane is safer. It is also slower. I prefer the “crazy and reckless” front of the plane to that of the “safe-and-cozy-in-the-event-of-a-????” in the back of the plane.

Then, knowing that six more were right behind them, they closed the door. So the group of us sat there for ten minutes, all the while the plane is sitting there as well, with a group of gate attendants full of “I can’t” (umm, actually you could but you don’t want to), “No” (Why say yes, when your culture makes it feel so good to say no?) and “Well what do you want me to do?” (Ah, yeah, well, just do your job and help me out here…And maybe a smile would be nice as a kicker).

The two of them had about the level of service, empathy, and desire to try to help as much as a door knob. Really, it was unbelieveable. I really tried to give them the benefit of the doubt, and perhaps these are really at the heart of the matter good people having a bad day. But, then again, it’s likely they’re a product of the environment and culture they’ve created.

Suddenly, like a little angel fluttering her way through the terminal wearing red and white, a bubbly woman by from another gate to offer to help us over in her little area, a totally different culture. In fact, RGL (Rude Gate Lady) actually tried to stop NGL (Nice Gate Lady) from taking us over to her little section. RGL actually had us rebooked on a flight that got us into our final destination by about 11pm, with two more flight legs to go. And all the while, she was doing us SUCH a favor and it was SUCH a burden to get us on our way.

A little jacked with such bad service, we followed the NGL just with the hunch that someone who smiles and actually offered to help us simply MUST have some better outcomes for us—and if not, at least she’d be nice to work with.

When we walked over to her gate, it was a totally different experience. Apologies for the delay. Empathy. Solutions-orientations. It was as simple as “Hey guys, looks like a long day. I’m sorry. Let’s find some solutions to get you outta here into your final destination, and I think I might find some better options that what you currently have that can get you in a few hours earlier.”

No surprise, she found seats on a flight that got us in earlier—three hours earlier—but more so did it in a way that made the group of us feel better.

And, I expect, her as well.

March 23, 2009March 29, 2009

Find a Cause

Rendition of FUTURE Hands On Children's Museum in Oly — Rendition of future Hands On Children's Museum in Oly

Over the past year I’ve found meaning in finding a cause.

Outside of work.

Work is meaningful, and in fact I genuinely ENJOY work. I doubt I will ever retire–though I’m sure if you’re a bit more “experienced” in life you’re thinking “well that’s easy to say at 35 years old”, right?

Work is a real blessing, and I have always felt that way. Probably more of us feel that way now than a few years ago.

But I’ve also become convinced that work shouldn’t be our only cause. Your spirituality, of course, is important. Politics are important (side note: my blog is mostly apolitical and areligious yet it’s hard to separate fully personal beliefs from life’s experiences and ones writings). Family and friends are important. And sometimes it hardly seems time to do these things well, let alone add one more to the mix.

This year, more so than I have in the past ten years, I’ve concluded volunteerism is important as well. Maybe beyond important–maybe it’s our duty, or a calling as a citizen.

I think JFK during his inauguration (obviously this was pre-womb for me, so I live vicariously through reading about this) provided timeless and truthful words encouraging that Americans need be ACTIVE citizens.

So after feeling pulled and compelled in this direction, by both desire and duty, about 18-months ago I began looking into various volunteer activities locally where I could spend consistent time working on a set of projects and initiatives that I believed in–and would help the community. So I found a cause where I thought I could make an impact, and also something in which I believed in: The Hands On Children’s Museum in Olympia (HOCM).

images1

So for the past year I have had the privilege to work on the Board of Directors at the HOCM locally. I don’t write about this to be self-promoting in any way, if anything I’m a little embarrassed that I haven’t done more volunteering over the past ten years of my life, especially compared to the amount of time I’ve “wasted” on things way less important. Instead, I write about it because the experience has given me new insight and meaning. Beyond what I hope is a positive impact to my community and to an organization that focuses on childhood development, here are a few of the great experiences that being involved have provided.

1. Perspective. When you’re consumed by work, then it seems at times that work is all that matters. When you get engaged in something else, perspective changes. And sometimes that different perspective comes back and helps out in other areas as well.

2. Collaboration. This might strike you as odd, I get a chance to collaborate a lot at work internally and with all our field partners. Yet, I’ve never felt the same invigorating feeling of collaborating with a bunch of people on a project for which they were paid nothing. In fact, recently we were working on a marketing plan for the HOCM and the 90-minutes were among the most enjoyable I’ve had in a team dialogue. Motive, totally pure. No politics. No posturing. No ego. Just an intense desire to passionately do what was right for the HOCM, community, and the kids. Not to say these dialogues can’t and don’t happen in a work environment, but as many of you know, it’s just different when you’re doing it philanthropically versus for money.

Marketing Committee Meeting (yes, we work at the kids chairs and tables!)

3. Fulfillment. I’m not one to suggest finding your highest fulfillment in things or activities, but I do think there’s something fulfilling about being a productive member of society. Whether you’re getting paid to do it or not. In fact, maybe we’re more productive to society when it’s unpaid.

What about you?

I’m curious to hear your activities and some of the projects that you participate within, locally or nationally, occasionally or often, and to hear of some of the experiences it’s provided you.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, it�s doubtless great for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 23, 2009

Twitter Weekly Updates for 2009-03-23

is officially done presenting and has a three day breather, road tour here we come #
is leaving Portland after an incredible weekend of Univera meetings #
is headed back for more meetings after a quick bite at Koji #
is back from the leadership dinner, such an AMAZING group of Univera leaders…Heart, Purpose, Fun. What a blast. #
is prepping for the big Leadership dinner tonight…My topic? Leadership…”The Five Factors” #
Had a really productive and inspiring day with Univera leaders! Great people. in reply to rlewis #
is wide awake and sleepless #
is more coffee (decaf this time) and more planning #
is coffee and planning #
okay so I went and “span” and do feel better #
is really debating whether to go and work out #
@BrianClayville thanks Brian, you too in reply to BrianClayville #
is learning more about the Oly isthmus rezone #
just completed a Skype business presentation to the Bay area #

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless great for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 22, 2009March 27, 2009

The Problem with People

I know it’s a negative sounding start, but there are–indeed–quite a few problems with people. All of us. 🙂

Without railing against humanity, as there’s good to humanity as well, the problem with people is we’re often greedy and selfish.

I’ll forego the whole “well is it nature or nurture” debate, partly because it doesn’t really matter and partly because it’ll distract from the post.

I remember reading about a really interesting study done a while back, this is probably many years ago now though I expect there have been quite a few variations before and since. The study was simple. They looked at a group of people and through a series of systematic trials and proper research offered them two different options to determine which choice they would make and why (the numbers I’m using below are illustrative–I don’t remember the exact amounts offered but the principle is what I’m trying to share).

Here were the two simple options presented to the study participants.

1. You get $20 and another peer/neighbor would get $40.

2. You get $10 and another peer would get nothing.

Guess what the majority of people chose?

Option two.

I don’t understand it. If you’re reading this you’d probably say you don’t understand it either. But, the conclusion was that many people (not everybody) are generally were not motivated for a decision that was better for them (though perhaps not as “better” as someone elses) but, instead, opted for the decision that would be lesser for them than the alternative BUT better than someone else’s alternative.

It’s not just scarcity thinking (a whole other topic which isn’t quite as black and white as some project), it’s really just selfish thinking. It’s pride. It’s ego.

So maybe, just maybe, this is our natural inclination (I don’t really like to admit it, but I’m relying on the research here), yet there’s also a way to work through it. I’m not sure how to really articulate it, but I think part of it is through community (though we should work to be less selfish even if people aren’t in community).

(I sure am using a lot of parenthesis in this blog posting).

Over the past week I’ve seen some great examples of humanity and selfLESSness. And I think it’s one of the virtues of getting connected in the right community. Some are small examples, and others still quite big.

It’s one of the great things about Univera, after some fantastic meetings with the best of our leadership at the Corporate offices last week followed by some exceptional meetings over the weekend down in Portland. During this time I met people that through personal development, aspiration, inspiration, and discipline were focused on forging out the selfish behaviors and decisions that cloud the success we can see in our life–and I’m not just talking about success in the context of “more money” though I think that’s probably related as well.

The Kimpton Hotel chain is, to me, a great example of what can be done through community that helps change personal behaviors. It’s one of the best service chains I have EVER experienced. I could easily give you about ten examples of some spectacular service I’ve experienced. But it’s not forced. THE PEOPLE THERE ACTUALLY LIKE TO SERVE. It’s not like the Ritz Carlton, which I never have liked because of the expense AND pretense of the environment, what rubs to me as “forced” levels of service. I realize some will disagree with this so it’s just my opinion. But, instead, the Kimpton employees are genuinely gracious. Sincerely kind. Helpful. Polite. Naturally friendly. But part of the catch is they are already hiring in great people, it’s not like they are trying to run a rehab program for people with bad attitudes. But I am also certain that, in conjunction of hiring genuinely great people, those people in turn become better.

I am certain that a key part of their very sophisticated strategic plan is the exceptionally complicated initiative called “let’s just hire nice people.”

So how does this relate to the origination of the post, where the study referenced suggests people would rather have much less but be “better off” than their peers versus having more yet being “less” compared to others?

Well, a few simple things. And I don’t think there’s anything profound here–it’s just some observational thoughts after a long week of seeing a bunch of human dynamics.

1. Ego ruins an awful lot. And it causes people to make very irrational decisions. In addition to simply selfish ones.

2. Community is important. Lest we become even more selfish, greedy, and try to keep up with even more Joneses.

3. The right community is even more important. It’ll either spur you on and encourage you to give and serve more, or in the wrong one it’ll cause likely encourage the reverse.

4. And, finally…I think rationalization helps improve selfishness. If, at times, it’s an instinct to make for a selfish decision I think the process of stopping. Thinking. Assessing. Reassessing. And then really looking at, as the wise Dr. Taylor Hartman says, your motive.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doc. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all period. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless great for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 19, 2009March 26, 2009

Thoughts from 3am

I have heard of counting sheep. Drinking warm milk. Reading boring text. Taking S4. Prayer and/or meditation. Ambien. And others, in order to fall asleep. At some point I have tried all of these things. But tonight, I thought I would add “Blogging” to the list of dream-inducing events.

I do not think this will become a very widespread sleep aid, because when you start to write your mind starts to churn…Next thing you know you’ve ripped open the bag containing a remaining few pieces of wheat-free oatmeal “Snackimals” (sorry RoZo, I owe you half a bag…and, yes, Dad realizes that I step over bounds when I eat snacks with cute characters on the front that carry a suffix of “imals”) and am slurping down some green tea while a racing mind transfers mid-night thoughts through synapses (who are neither increasing repair or reducing damage at this very moment) to a keyboard to the blog to your screen.

So now I’ve got some calories, caffeine, and stimulus. All of which, in some way, must be related to a restful night sleep. But perhaps it will be a crash tomorrow night and thus restful, rather than tonight.

I think the restless energy I have is due to a few things. And I’m not just talking DNA, though that is also logical as well.

It has to do with hope and goals, and how the body and mind are intertwined with commitment.

images-2

For starters, I’m awake because I want to get in shape. I know this is a juxtaposition and sounds like an odd reason? But here’s the implication for the moment right now. I am happy that I’m making progress w/ my bodyfat goals; monthly I get a test to track results–my latest is 22%, down 1% from a month ago. But I am disappointed I’m not moving along fast enough at my current rate to get to 15% by end of my target date in June. And, it’s no one else’s fault but my own! I would like to blame a lot of sources, including the guy who invented putting Oreo’s into ice cream. But the reality is for me that losing bodyfat isn’t so easy and my focus is just on “shutting up and doing it”, apart from blogging about a few experiences along the way. And regardless of what got me in my physical shape today (ummmm, hmmmm….that would be me) it’s also my responsibility to get me out of it. And it’ll take more discipline and hard work and there’s a lot of moments when I won’t be liking the journey.

So the reason I’m restless is Spin class starts in a few hours and I was really determined before attempting to go to bed at a late hour to make it up in time for this class. You know when you don’t have many hours you can sleep in a night and then you’re worried you’re going to oversleep, so the little rest you were going to have simply gets more restless? Yeah, that’s what’s in play right now.

The other reason is that about three weeks ago I initiated a meeting for Univera’s top leadership that began this afternoon and continued through dinner. It’s a group called the Elite Leadership Group (ELG) which was an invitational meeting for select Blue Diamonds and FLC members. They’re the best of the best in our field organization (of course there are other great leaders as well–many of which come in later this afternoon at the Diamond level). So I’m hosting what is a “next level leadership session” and the starting point for this couldn’t have gone better. I’m not suggesting I drove the good start; to the contrary, what drove the good start is that the leaders came in with the aspiration to unify and focus on the things that matter most. In order that, as an organization, we have the ability to move forward with unsurpassed clarity and confidence in a business-market that lacks both in most current worldwide endeavors.

So I’m restless because of a racing mind filled with excitement about our business; the products, the culture, and the financial renewal that it can bring so many people. I’m excited about being united with a core group of people whose motives don’t need to be questioned. And I’m excited about the work session with have today, first with the ELG and then followed by an afternoon with the rest of our “all in” Diamond leadership in Univera. Someday we’ll look back on March 18-19 and see it as transformational. Not just the people who were there. But, more importantly, the commitment we collectively made to do the things that needed to be done to achieve greatness.

And with that, I’m now going to test my “blog-as-sleep-aid” theory to see if I was able to expel the energy and decompress for another hour of sleep–or if I just wound up all the more. 🙂

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, it�s doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 15, 2009March 26, 2009

Mr. Mom

This weekend I was Mr. Mom.

Erica left to head down to Orange County to visit one of her friends.

In fact, two oddities about her trip. One was that I was within miles of her location just the week prior on a Univera biz trip. The second is that on my trip a week ago I TRIED to see my sister (one of four) during the two days that I was in Orange County but it didn’t work out. And then last night Erica went to church with her friend, a church with over 10,000 members, and she ran into my sister at the church service. Erica had, of course, no idea that she even lived that closeby let alone went to this church. Very odd. But I love “coincidences” like that.

I was determined to make the most of the weekend for the kids (and maybe me), yet I was still committed to get a lot done. Starting with some Ethiopian food at Mesob. Any restaurant that has metal bars on all the exterior windows quickly falls into one of two distinct buckets. Exceptionally good. Or exceptionally scary.

Over the next few days we tried a total of three different Ethiopian restaurants in Seattle (total of four for the week) so we could pick the clear winner. Which, of course, ended up being the one that was the most “rustic” with window bars and all.

Zoe declared it as officially “the best restaurant I have ever been to!” And all for $17. A cultural and culinary bargain.

Friday night we watched a movie. I don’t even know the name of it, but somehow in browsing the Blockbuster aisles Royce and Zoe found this one with a cute dog on the cover in the family section.

The movie must have been about ten years old, and it was foreign. So I rented it, but realized my mistake after I popped it into the player and it wasn’t in English. Perhaps Tibetan, but for sure a language I wasn’t familiar with–or genre for that matter. An eclectic family movie, there were, I believe, five total characters in the movie. That includes a dog. Taking place in the middle of nowhere. The two hour movie could easily be summarized by the following:

Day in the life of a Tibetan-tent-living-family. They cook. They hunt. One day family decides to pack up tent and belongings. Why? We have no idea. By the way, Dad hates the family dog. Ties dog to stake at old homesite as they leave. They somehow forget their toddler, or she somehow falls out of the bassonet in their wagon. Toddler goes back and plays around old homesite. Dog chews thru rope it’s affixed to and somehow saves Toddler from some vultures swarming overhead. Dad returns panicked, finds toddler with dog. Decides dog isn’t so bad after all. They all head to next camping spot.

That, literally, is the long AND exciting summation.

But, at the end, Zoe also emphatically declared that “This was the best movie ever!” I do not quite understand it, but both Royce and Zoe were mesmerized. Probably because they knew it was “unique” and they were also responsible for picking it out.

So by day three, this morning I thought I’d feel pretty good about myself. But, candidly, I was dragging. Just three days has given me a new appreciation for the responsibilities of full time home life. And, on a very serious note, particularly for those people who are single parents–it must be exceptionally challenging.

While looking at the day’s schedule I felt compelled to change around priorities, which included bailing on church (probably not a good decision) but included cleaning the house (a good decision) and making Machuta’s (Lithuanian for Grandmother) pancakes for the kids in the morning.

After hours of cleaning we went on a bit of an adventure including rock climbing (indoors at a gym), where the kids can already excel versus Dad. Afterwards, the girls faithfully declared that “rock climbing is even better than Disneyland!”

And after a day of cooking, cleaning, climbing, coffee-ing (two hours at Top Pot provided some WiFi time), and finally testing two more Ethiopian restaurants–the results of which I began in this blog–Zoe officially declared that “This is the best day ever!”, and if that’s the case–even if one of the kids felt that way for just one minute–it was probably the best accomplishment of my week.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all when. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless great for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 10, 2009March 26, 2009

Strength Training

I’m a longtime fan of Clarence Bass.

He’s pragmatic. Smart. And balanced. From him I’ve learned a lot of practical information, including the criticality of strength training for optimum health, fitness and the ability to get–and stay–lean (I am still working on the “get” part). I thought the following article was a good stair step towards building a healthier and better body, timely and relevant.

For me, I’ve found the most discouraging thing about strength training is that the results don’t often show up on the scale (obviously, when I was playing college football this wasn’t an issue that I cared about like I do now). In fact, I have been hitting it pretty hard for eight weeks now with both cardio and weights about 4-5x per week. And my eating habits have been, overall, great barring a few lousy meals here and there.

And with all this effort I have lost a whopping 32 ounces. Yep. Two entire pounds.

Fortunately, I also measure bodyfat using my Tanita scale (another reco I grabbed from Clarence) which has given me a much better orientation towards my goal–the results of which would have been hidden had I only looked at the weight. While the bodyfat scales aren’t as accurate as calipers or bioelectrical impedance they’re good for showing the change and progress.

And so while I now I could have achieved greater weight loss if I only initiated cardio and eliminated strength training, I also know that the weight lost would have also included muscle–and ultimately, what I really care bout is lean body mass. And I know that, at least for me, I simply can not get to my 15% bodyfat goal without strength training, and I know my body fat decline wouldn’t be anywhere near what it has been–or needs to be–without the strength training.

I think the summary below from Clarence is a good one, for a lot of reasons.

Forget Heavy, Think Effort

The health establishment struggles mightily to persuade people to exercise regularly with mixed results at best. The latest scientific findings and government guidelines say that strength training should be part of the mix at least twice a week. Many people, including those that need it most, are turned off by weight training. They imagine themselves having to lift heavy weights, and that turns them away.

Is that true? Do they have to lift very heavy weights? An eye-opening new study says “NO.” The study has the potential to change how strength training is perceived–and get many more people, perhaps millions more, pumping iron.

The study could revolutionize strength training for everyone, from pencil necks to muscle heads.

Click here to read the entire story.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 7, 2009March 26, 2009

Doctors, McDonalds, Airports, Associates, Oh My!

This morning I departed Orange County to head back to Seattle.

At the airport and in line at McDonalds (Egg McMuffin w/ only one piece of bread, extra egg—280 cal’s, not bad—but for that and a decaf $8.91—not good! Makes Essentials seem like a bargain) I chuckled, reflecting back on our Road Tour in the Fall where I somehow compiled over a half dozen pictures of myself and Univera Chief Scientific Officer Cherniske with a McDonalds in the background.

So as I’m in line thinking about this, totally at random, I see ahead of me in line is our sister company’s Chief Scientific Officer—Dr. Qi Jia! So we laughed sheepishly a bit about the both of us getting caught eating fast food, albeit selecting a reasonably healthy food offering, and then proceeded to chat a bit about business. He’s both a brilliant scientist and great colleague. In fact, we’re launching a couple amazing new products this year that include some amazing new Unigen ingredients. You’ll get to see and hear about it firsthand at Convention in June. So Qi was off to San Francisco, and I was headed home. But before we parted ways I offered to take a picture of the two of us at the McDonalds and he refused by laughing “No no, Rich, I know if you take a picture of us at McDonalds you’ll put it on your blog!!!”

Well, Qi, I don’t HAVE to get a picture to put it on the blog. It just makes it a bit more interesting. J

During my travel here I spent time at the Natural Products Expo as well as with some of our field associates attending a few meetings. The Expo is an annual trade show for our industry, it’s THE health and natural products event of the year—mostly oriented around B2B. Attending this event makes me remember how wellness/nutrition industry is—I really do feel great about being in this sector right now, the energy at the event was explosive. But beyond that, it’s becoming so exceptionally clear that there MUST be a monumental paradigm AND practice shift with healthcare in North America. And we’re going to be a major part of it.

During the event I attended a speaking session by acclaimed author and speaker Dr. Andrew Weil. He shared what he thought were the two most impactful things you could do for your health, based on all his years of research and experience.

Don’t eat manufactured or processed foods. Dr. Weil referenced several of Michael Pollan’s books, which are exceptional, that really talk to the importance of eating “real” food.

2. Breathe. There’s a breathing exercise that he picked up, I think from some Eastern medicine though I missed a bit of the history of the story, that he said he felt was transformational to a persons well being. The regimen is simple. Breathe in through your nose four seconds. Hold it for seven seconds. Open mouth (keep tongue loose, like a dog does when his mouth is open) and exhale for eight seconds. Do this four times. Not any more. And do it at least twice a day. After six to eight weeks it’s supposed to be magic.

3. Activity. Unequivocally, those that have the best health and wellness, especially in the later years, are those who have maintained or engaged in an active lifestyle. You’ve gotta be active.

He didn’t go into a fourth best practice, but I am quite certain it would have involve something like Univera’s transformational Xtra product.

The Natrual Products Expo event was great, booming excitement. Just another reaffirmation: right time, right place.

Apart from the Expo, I spent time on Thursday at a Univera opportunity meeting—over 150 were in attendance, and the event had leadership participation from a whole variety of Univera associates, including Bev (Tom had a conflicting meeting), Khai, Danny, Tiffany, R-Dawg (Richard Ross), Dianne McCourtney, and many others. It was a great event, lots of excitement, growth, and new people. At the event people were fired up about these amazing Univera products. And excited about the opportunity.

Later that evening over Korean food I enjoyed the excitement and energy of some of California’s enthusiastic leadership, like Danny, Tommy, Tiffany, Khai, Shari, and others. A lot of fun and excitement, a very gracious group of people whose efforts and contributions I appreciate tremendously.

As I continue to study our industry and see its constant evolution, a few things come to mind.

Let’s always remember that first and foremost we’re a product company that focused on delivering breakthrough cellular renewal products that help the body reduce damage and increase repair more exceptionally than any other Company in this industry—and we’ve got the science to prove it.

In this industry there are some who try to emphasize business opportunity as the first and single most important (or borderline “only”) criteria for their company’s existence. This is a mistake. Building any business on JUST the business opportunity is pretty darned close to the definition of a pyramid.

Beyond that, it’s not sustainable. Why? Because it belies the importance of having an actual product or service that meets an unmet consumer need, which is the purpose of any for-profit business. Any sustainable business MUST start by delivering some type of unmet consumer need.

If anyone tells you different, they’re simply mistaken and poorly versed in business strategy and sustainability. And I’m putting it politely. New Yorkers would phrase it a bit differently.

Beyond that, they’re basically selling you a “chain letter” style business, where ultimately the masses at the end of the chain letter get burned.

So, firstly, the products are the difference.

But beyond that, once we firmly establish the incredible value and life-changing impact of these products (even in this economy, well over half the people who enroll in Univera do so purely as customers), we’d also be remiss not to clearly and in a compelling way articulate the business opportunity that exists behind or in conjunction with the products. Either so someone can earn enough to get the products for free, or so they can make a little extra money. Or a lotta extra money. And in this economy the financial opportunity component is vital, if not life saving for many, but it MUST be built on something real. And that “something real” is comprised of Univera products that truly change people’s lives.

At the Silver and above reception one of the attendees asked me what I expected from the California group. A great question, and I’m thrilled it was asked—it’s not often that I get a question like that, but it shows me that individual really is focused on unity, cohesion and the mission.

My answer was a simple one: grow

And I didn’t just mean Business Volume. Yeah, do that. Do LOTS of that.

But beyond that, grow as people. As a team. Grow the culture.

What’s the culture?

Help others, including crossteam and outside of your payline. Do the right thing—whether someone is looking or not. Never compromise your integrity to make a few extra bucks—it’ll come back to you in other ways, and even if it didn’t you’ll never feel complete. Offer respect and a listening spirit to your peers and team. Realize it’s a team victory. Conduct open meetings where everyone is welcome and can participate. Leave ego aside. Settle into the amazing things that can be done when we all work together with purposeful intent. Stay committed, don’t wander and meander with other shiny objects. Have fun, and celebrate your success at ALL levels. Give back to the community.

In other words, practice Servant Leadership.

Have fun.

Stay focused.

And continue California Dreamin’.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 3, 2009March 26, 2009

Secret Diet Revealed!

It’s finally arrived. The secret diet. It’s the magic bullet. And it all comes from a peer reviewed medical journal, the New England Journal of Medicine.

Ready? Would you guess South Beach? Atkins? Zone? Pritikin? Grapefruit diet? The amazing Inthinity System from Univera? (http://www.youtube.com/watchv=XLmglkG45jQ)

You’re wrong.

And you’re right!

The magic diet? It simple. It’s the diet called “Sticking to it.”

Seriously, that’s what the findings were from the New England Journal of Medicine. The short of it was that, generally speaking, any diet will work so long as you stick with it (which is the harder part). Despite lacking any type of nutrition background, from personal study even I would debate with the study author the importance of whole grains, a low glycemic index, lean meats, organically grown if possible, and the like.

But I think the results here are telling–which is that while all of that might be important, when trying to achieve weight loss what matters most is simply sticking with it.

Which is why I have never mocked anyone for spending–even wasting perhaps–a lot of money on exercise equipment or DVD’s or meal plans or whatever-it-is that people try to chase to find out what’s best for them. Think about the amount of money we waste on sheer junk that goes into our lives, whether that be games or trinkets or food.

And to spend some dough on something that might end up making an impact on your life is a pretty good bet. What I’ve learned is that a part of the secret to weight loss and healthful living (for ME) is to find something I love to do–and that’s taken some trial and error.

The more important piece is, of course, to finally settle on something and do it consistently.

So I’ve worked first on my consistency, but I’ve played around with finding the things that I enjoy most. For example, the last six weeks I’ve consistently done both weights and cardio 3-4 times per week, almost always using the elliptical for my cardio. But I got a little bored and wanted to mix it up a bit.

So this week I tried a few spin classes which I have absolutely loved. It’s an hour of instructor led encouragement with self-pacing, an aggressive heart rate, adrenaline pumping music, and sweat. Lots, and lots, and lots of sweat.

So much sweat, in fact, that it leads me to a blog confession here to my colleague… Rachel, you know that golf shirt you lent me tonight before I left the office? Well, I did use it, as I explained I would, to hold my spot on one of the spinning bikes while I changed.

But in those spinning classes you get really really sweaty. Dripping. Like out of the shower kind of dripping. And, there was nothing else near me that was dry, apart from this lone, white, Univera golf shirt. I waited as long as I could…but I ended up using your shirt as a towel. So I owe you a shirt. Yet, just realize, you have contributed in a very unique way to my wellness, and this blog entry. Thank you. 🙂

So here’s the magic article, and it’s a really simple finding. Ironically, I wrote a blog entry a few days ago, as it relates to vocation, and my suggestion was simple.

Find something you love to do. And then just keep doing it.

And, it seems, a study published in the NEJM suggests the same principle applies as it relates to weight loss.

It’s Not What You Eat, It’s How Much

Dieters everywhere — yo-yo dieters, crash dieters, fad dieters, dejected and jaded dieters — may take heart.

A new study offers a flexible take on what it means to diet while underscoring fundamental rules about weight loss.

Researchers compared a low-fat, average protein diet, a low-fat, high-protein diet, a high-fat, average-protein diet, and a high-fat, high-protein diet in 811 middle-aged obese people over two years. Each group lost an average of 13 pounds after one year, though slowly started to gain it back in the second year, bringing the average lost after two years to nine pounds.

Click here to read the entire story.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all period. What is the most significant data you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

March 1, 2009March 26, 2009

A Simple Saturday

Somedays are brilliant in their simplicity. I’m usually pretty restless but this weekend I enjoyed some simple time. Yesterday, after I awoke and brewed a pot of “Top Pot” decaf coffee, the sun broke through the morning clouds and filled the sky for a few brief moments.

The day was simple, in that we woke up and made “Machuta’s pancakes.” It’s my grandmothers Lithuanian recipe–and of all the fun things that they might like to ask for on the weekends for breakfast, they always choose this above all else. They’re like a really thin but large crepe cooked on both sides (the flip is a bit tricky); with a little low-sugar syrup on the inside or some pureed fruit and rolled up it’s unbelievable. So the kids love this, and I love making it for them.

There were a few other things that we did on Saturday, like heading to our weekly trip to the Olympia food CO-OP–where we try to make most of our food purchases. The kids love the little play area, we love the simple-yet-plentiful selection of organic and local foods. And I always feel good after leaving there.

But the most memorable was our visit to the Blue Lotus Cafe for lunch. It has been my favorite restaurant for casual (but delicious) food in Olympia.

Until it closed this weekend. The restaurant comprised all organic (local when possible) ingredients that were married together in a way that created an incredible culinary delight.

There aren’t many restaurants that I love in Olympia. But, this was one of them. Part of it was the exceptional food.

Another part that it was organically based from local sources.

A final part was that you could tell someone put their heart and soul into this little restaurant. And that’s the part that probably bothers me most about its closing.

This wasn’t just a job for someone who ran it, instead it was a passion and calling.

But, for whatever reason, the calling for this little restaurant came to a close this weekend. Another unfortunate consequence to a stumbling economy, that has the impact not just on its owners but also several employees and the patrons who frequented the business. To me it doesn’t make sense that this little gem of incredibly delicious and nutritious food, with kitchy ambiance and charming service, didn’t make it yet a mile down the road IHOP still sits. But, such is life and some things don’t seem to work out like we expect.

Today I meant to bring the owner a card and a bottle of wine, just to tell her that I appreciated what she contributed to the community–and that she’ll be missed. Family plans got in the way of my running out, so I’ll drop it off to her tomorrow but I suppose my blog entry serves as a sort of substitute for acknowledging a persons passion and good works directed toward the community, that simply didn’t end like I am sure she hoped. And me either.

Thanks, Blue Lotus, for making the impact that you did during the time you were here.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

February 26, 2009March 20, 2009

Dying Wishes

There are some things in life that just don’t seem fair. This story I stumbled upon gives reflection to a new definition.

Perhaps it’s especially difficult as a dad of two little girls, who talk and think of nothing more than getting married when they grow up. One day I found her sitting with a look on despair on face while sitting on the coach, and when I asked her “What’s wrong my little Roycie?” and she exclaimed, “It’s just so hard dad…It’s just so hard to know who God wants you to marry when you grow up.” She was five.

So this story really hit me emotionally and I couldn’t watch this simple video without tearing up; so I’ve limited myself to three views. I’ve included the video as well as an accompanying article (from a different news source).

What I thought mattered to me one minute before seeing this video was differently than what I thought mattered to me in the one minute following this video.

Dying Wishes: Weddings to Helping Homeless

The bride was dressed in ruffled white and wore a tiara. The groom pledged to be her best friend forever. They exchanged rings, and the lucky North Texas couple swooned as they danced to their favorite song — “Love Bug” by the Jonas Brothers.

They may be a tender age — Jayla Cooper is 9 and the groom, Jose Griggs, is 7 — but their parents were behind them all the way.

For Jayla, who has been diagnosed with an aggressive form of leukemia and who, according to her doctors, may only have weeks to live, the “wedding” was less a dream come true than a last wish.

Click here to read the entire story.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all time. What is the most significant data you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

February 24, 2009March 26, 2009

Regrets

Today at the gym I was on the elliptical machine and there was an older woman in front of me who had really short hair. I wouldn’t have noticed, apart from the large tattoo on her neck of a pink “Care Bears” fully exposed given the short hair.

If she doesn’t already, my guess is she will someday regret getting that tattoo.

So at that moment I started thinking about regrets.

I’ve got some and so do you.

For some that say “I have no regrets”, I know it sounds fashionably independent and confident–almost brash and brave. But it also says that they probably aren’t thinking hard enough about their past or their memories are too short.

When it comes down to it, I think we all have regrets. Often, decisions are based on whether we think we’ll have a regret or not as a consequence.

Years ago I was working at the corporate offices of Eli Lilly in Indianapolis in a Marketing role. Many of my peers had MBA’s from the top tier schools, and I remember working with some exceptionally talented people. Say what you what about Pharma/Biotech (and I do think, generally, the health care model is broken with many of these companies), but they generally have

exceptionally talented people that work in the corporate offices.

There were a few corporate guys like me who had risen up to a corporate role from the field sales position, but we were always a little bit different than the “MBA employees.” At least that’s how I felt at times–but it didn’t hold me back and it really didn’t bother me, I always acknowledged the value of higher education. Except for one time I remember getting pretty rankled, as I heard with great clarity and ringing words in my ears as one Duke MBA brat told me “nobody without an MBA has the ability to work in Business Development” (which, ironically, I later did, though with a different company).

This statement alone made me want to NOT get my MBA and prove him wrong. But that response only lasted a few minutes, and truth be told I had been wrestling with the idea of

whether to pursue an MBA.

In fact, I had a three pronged decision: 1) Bypass the MBA and just continue getting some incredible work experiences and climbing the ladder; 2) Continue w/ the great work experiences but give up a lot of my personal life for a few

years and go to a part time MBA program; 3) Go to a stellar full time MBA program, giving up my full time job, so I could focus all my energies on education.

One of the great things about a large Company like Eli Lilly is the wealth of knowledge and intellectual horsepower that exists and is freely available. I worked really hard to perform while there, but I also worked equally hard to learn. And during that time I had outstanding mentors. So I used the vast network of people during the course of four months and I set up about a dozen different meetings with various colleagues to pick their brain about MBA programs and get different perspectives so I could make my own decision and take a best course of action. It was a big decision for me.

Invariably, almost without exception, I learned three things when trying to assess a no-go, PT, or FT MBA program decision.

1. Those who didn’t go to get their MBA generally didn’t think it that useful or “needed” in order to succeed. So they didn’t really recommend it.

2. Those that went part time were convinced that getting a part time MBA was the best approach, that getting an MBA was vitally important but not enough so that you should leave the workforce and miss out on those workplace experiences.

3. Those that went full time were equally convinced that getting an MBA was not only vital, but that you really “must” go through a full time program at a top tier school.

This proves a bit of the problem with selection bias. I learned a lot from these informational meetings, but ultimately the advice-giver couldn’t generally divorce themselves from personal bias–and people usually want to validate their own personal decisions.

My final information-gathering meeting was with a mentor of mine named Joe. We talked for about an hour, he had an easy and casually conversant style–peppered with lots of questions about my goals and aspirations, but he also did a great job of sharing with me various experiences and some of the pros and cons of my decisions as he saw it.

In fact, he was so objective that I can’t even recall if he had an MBA or not. He was one of the few that didn’t have such a strong personal bias. And as much as I liked the advice and his mentorship, what we discussed during the 59 minutes didn’t really help me as much as what he said in the final one minute.

As we were closing the dialgue, he made a statement so simple but provided such exceptional clarity that I remember this being the tipping point of my decision to go and pursue and MBA. Joe said the following simple statement in both a confident and reassuring way:

“Raz, I have no question that if you go back and get your MBA that you’ll never regret it. Never.”

And oddly enough, that’s all I needed to hear.

Hours and hours of deliberation and dialogue suddenly flew out the window, and I knew EXACTLY what I was supposed to do. So quickly thereafter I enrolled in a fantastic part-time MBA program while also continuing with the great experiences at Lilly (which also led to another more diverse set of experiences in Manhattan at a start-up and other adventures, for another blog entry).

What crystallized the decision for me was the simple acknowledgment and affirmation from a trusted mentor that I would never regret the decision to go back to school to get my MBA. That’s it. Clearly, a large part of my decision was driven by ambition and a thirst for learning and personal/professional development; but another part of it was driven by a very simple motive: not wanting to have any regrets.

And that’s the simple message of today that, while seeing a pink bear tattoo while working out on the elliptical machine, initiated all these thoughts that tie back to where we are today. I think the question goes through everybody’s mind at some time: “Do I really want to work in Relationship Marketing? And, if so, do I want to do it with Univera?”

Today, when it comes to this industry and our Company, I think the best advice I can give comes directly from a mentor of mine years ago.

If you join us on this journey, it’s a decision that I’m confident that you’ll never regret.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all when. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good heartiness, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

February 22, 2009March 26, 2009

An Entry Without a Subject (yet!)

It’s rare that I start blogging without a specific purpose or subject, but today’s entry is starting

just with that. As my fingers pound the keyboard (quite loudly; I’m among the loudest typists in the world–if “Surf Lifesaving” made it as an Olympic event one year during the last hundred years, why not “loud typing”? ) I am subjectless and purposeless with this particular blog entry.

But I have two things going for me tonight.

1. I’ve got the headphones on and am listening to Pandora (www.pandora.com). If you

haven’t used it before, you’ve gotta try it. Their stated mission is to “only play the music you love.”

It’s customized Web-based radio that’s free based on the genres, songs, or artists that you love. I’ve mentioned it before but it’s simply

amazing. I’ve found that music helps me focus and remove distractions. I need white or background noise at times to keep my mind from jumping to “the next thing”. My various music selections on Pandora are a haven where I can escape life for a few moments and immerse myself into writing. There’s also a free iPhone app for Pandora which is fantastic. No, I’m not trying to sell iPhones. But the app features are amazing.

2. I feel like writing. At times writing can feel a tad of a burden, at others it’s an incredible form of stress relief or simple enjoyment. It’s probably a bit like working out or any other project, where a lot of the times the toughest part is simply starting. But once you get going something transforms. I think it’s why the TV can be such an evil force against greatness. During that moment of “should I go workout, file, read, write…whatever” the TV is such a quick and seemingly gratifying temptation that can suck the time out of you. Like those chocolate chip cookies looking at me from our kitchen counter. I will resist both the TV and the cookies at this very moment, but it’s a bit easier because I desire to resist them.

As I write, two stories come to mind–probably related to some thoughts I’ve had throughout the day.

Victor Frankl’s book, “Mans Search for Meaning” tells the story of having lived through the Nazi concentration camps. I haven’t read the book for over a decade, but I remember a fascinating story about the importance of meaning of even remedial work–moving rocks. And how the meaning impacted the work and the simple sanity, ultimately the purpose and the

health, of their everyday lives. It’s a great book with the underlying premise that meaning is tied to motivation.

Related to motivation yet on a totally different basis I recently read a fascinating article in a magazine called “The Week” (www.theweek.com). Which is a fantastic news resoures that hails itself as “All you need to know about everything that matters.” A bit of a stretch, but it’s an incredible magazine. I can’t recommend it enough, in an hours worth of reading you can be fairly well versed on a lot of current events with a variety of opinions and perspectives on a multitude of matters.

So last week there was an interesting story in “The Week” about people who survive calamities. Airplane crashes. Boating disasters. Fires in buildings. In short, there are a few categories of people and how the behave. The point of the story is that the ones who often survive are the ones who don’t quit. It’s the ones that simply refuse to resign themselves to fate. Fodder for another blog entry, I can attest to seeing the amazing differences of human behavior fairly closely on 9/11 when we lived downtown during the days events.

The leadership lesson is a simple one that works in any difficult situation, including economic.

Find something to do that you find meaningful.

And then don’t quit.

I think this one is really simple. Do what you’re supposed to be doing. And then keep doing it.

Great leaders are tenacious and dig in when things get tough.

Some will always be on the lookout for excuses or justification to simply “give up” and accept their fate in a situation of disaster. But not great leaders, and not people who want to win. Or, in the case of this article, simply live.

The people (leaders) who keep looking for ways to figure it out are the ones with the greatest success–in situations of crisis or otherwise. And if you can tie that to having a purpose or meaning in life, all the more powerful. Though the reality is, that with some things in our life it simply requires a grind–there’s probably nothing noble or even mission-worthy about it. The very basic premise at times can be survival, which is why both stories–Frankl’s and the recent article in “The Week” came to mind today.

By the way, on a very unrelated matter to leadership…This weekend Univera launched it’s second amazing Immune stimulating product of the year (yes, two products already in ’09!) called Solanyx. It’s a seven day course of botanical immune-boosting greatness that’s in a handy system comprised of morning and evening doses. Check it out on www.univera.com.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doctor. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all season. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

February 19, 2009March 26, 2009

100k for a desk and a rug, any takers?

This is a posting I started weeks back when this was hot in the news; yet, the Thain story continues with his lavish personal indulgences disclosed amidst the categorically related uproar over grossly lavish Executive pay–and more than this, INTENTIONALLY irresponsible financial decision making while stakeholders sweat the consequences. There’s a big difference between intentional and accidental. Today I’m focusing on the intentional.

While we’re on the subject of the responsibility of leadership and Executive pay, let me share a few stats. One of the contrasts that can be seen with wildly excessive Executive pay is the growth of the average CEO’s salary versus that of the average paid worker in his/her organization.

In 1980 the multiple was at a very low (historically) 42. This means that the CEO received 42 times the average salary of his/her employees. So let’s say the average worker made $40,000, using that multiple of 42 it would equate to that particular CEO’s pay of nearly $1.7 million dollars a year.

Over the past few decades, this has crept upward.

To a 100 multiple.

Then 150x.

Later 250x.

Even 350x.

And then some.

This ratio peaked as high as 525x during the dot-com bubble, but has hovered in the 300-400x range even in the last few years. In 2005 the multiple was 411x. Yes, the average CEO pay was a multiple of 411 TIMES HIGHER than that of the average employee.

So let’s take our same hypothetical example. Let’s say the average worker salary in those companies was $40,000, at a multiple of 411 that would equate to: over 16 million dollars.

(As an aside, as a Company Univera doesn’t disclose revenues and salaries/etc., however, I am certain that our ratio is currently just a fraction of what the ratio was EVEN BACK during the historic lows in 1980.)

There’s something wrong with this picture; it’s not that performers and the best of the best shouldn’t be paid competitively and extremely well for their efforts, but at the same time–when is enough enough? And at what cost to the shareholders, the employees, and some semblance of sanity and inherent fairness?

Back to the subject. Every great Exec does and will make accidental decisions that have adverse consequences. It’s the ones that do it intentionally and dramatically, with hubris and greed, that reign a far different judgment than those who simply made a mistake.

I generally try to focus on the happy-feel-good stories in my blog, but the lessons learned don’t always come from just these. Sometimes it’s learning and observing through the mistakes of others.

The aburdity of Thain’s hubris is summed up by one of his more recent quotes (not highlighted in the story below) to explain away his lavish office purchases which exceeded 100k worth of a piece of wood furniture and a rug, by saying these were purchased over a year ago “in a different economic environment.”

Given that over half the world lives on less than $3 per day, the only thing that competes with the audacity of his lavish six figure purchase is the audacity of his justification.

I don’t know Thain from Adam, other than what I’ve read. So I don’t offer this as a vilification of the man or person, though I am giving him a little bit of heck for these particular decisions and justifications. To judge him as a person isn’t my place or desire. And he might be a really decent guy who just made some some stupid decisions (incidentally, the lavish furniture was just a small glimpse into some poor decision-making, which included doling out a reported 4 billion in bonuses to his management team during a year where the firm LOST 27 billion dollars.) There’s more to this story, but moving on.

So, anyways, as I was saying…Some really really stupid decisions. But that’s part of the problem when greed grabs hold. It turns good people into lasers for the WIFM question–What’s In it For Me? It’s a normal question to ask, but once this question blatantly CONSUMES the questioner, it can be a dangerous path. Because justification will follow everywhere else. There will ALWAYS be a way to justify a decision once greed grabs hold. In fact, that’s what makes it so dangerous–because the greed will absolutely blind the inflicted with a rationalization of right and wrong, even when it flies in the face of logic.

Reflecting on Thain’s Reversal of Fortune

His Wall Street pedigree seems impeccable. A top job at Goldman Sachs. The chief of the New York Stock Exchange. Finally, the reins of the stock market’s “thundering herd,” Merrill Lynch.

But in less than 15 minutes on Thursday, the charmed career of John A. Thain was derailed, The New York Times’s Julie Creswell and Louise Story write.

Three weeks after his foundering brokerage firm was sold to Bank of America for $50 billion in stock, Mr. Thain was pushed out by the bank’s chief executive, Kenneth D. Lewis, who is struggling to contain the damage from his bank’s daring gamble on Merrill Lynch.

Click here to read the entire story.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all season. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good soundness, it�s doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

February 17, 2009March 26, 2009

Lose It!

There are all sorts of gizmos, gadgets, and fads as it relates to weight loss. We all know that and each of us probably has a story or two of some purchase we either regret, or are embarrassed to admit, because it was one of those too-good-to-be-true panaceas.

So often we enjoy a bit of comedy about those of us who try different things and approaches, especially Americans who are among the most overweight of world citizens yet spend millions and millions upon exercise equipment that often gets used more by the owners closets than the actual owners themselves. But I’m never one to criticize to trial.

Here’s why.

Different things work for different people. And, sometimes, it just takes a lot of trial and error to figure out what is going to work for you.

I don’t particularly like fad diets or fad equipment with unmanageable claims and unrealistic testimonials, however much we want to believe the “I can get rich and gorgeous overnight” shticks. I think we can all agree that the simple and effective premise is burn more calories than you consume and over time you’ll lose weight, feel better, gain greater levels of energy, and just feel better.

Certainly, much has been learned over the past few years about nutrition and this has a bearing on success. My personal belief and what I TRY (try!) to adhere to is a whole foods diet, comprised as much as possible of locally grown produce (organic whenever possible) with lean meats while focusing on foods that also carry a low glycemic index (though I’m sure someone will catch me from time to time sneaking a Top Pot donut). I just know this approach works for me, and it’s nutritionally sound (BTW, let me recommend a great book: Michael Pollan “In Defense of Food”).

The eating plan I’ve used with the greatest amount of success is the South Beach Diet–despite

the name, I don’t think it’s fad-ish at all, in fact it’s a really simple concept and its biggest downsides are probably time and expense (it takes time in preparation and it does costs considerably more than a $1 box of Mac and Cheese to eat fresh whole foods, though it’s also not cost prohibitive).

So I’m a big fan of finding the tool that works for you–I don’t think people can be pushed into a specific corner and must rigidly adhere to this exact style of meal plan, and endure this specific a workout. Part of this is about finding out what works for you. Then, of course, the other part, is simply doing it.

Which is exactly what I’m trying to do personally. My physical goal for the year is to have 15% bodyfat by the end of June of this year. I started out QUITE a ways away from this, far enough away that I’m embarrassed to share the number, and while I’m much closer today I still have a good ways to go. So I’m trying to kick it into higher gear so I make my target with some time to spare and so it doesn’t require a binge of sorts (which isn’t good either).

One of the tools that I’ve found and used over the past month is an Apple iPhone application called “Lose It”, which also happens to be a FREE download.

And I “Love It.”

The reason is simple. It gives me daily accountability on my caloric intake, since I add all of my meals and snacks into the daily planner. It keeps tabs on me day to day, and week to week, against my targeted progress of weight loss. Beyond this, though, it also lets me log my exercise. And it offsets the calories I burned due to exercise against my daily allowance. So if I want to go for that glass of red wine, it’s an easy reminder that I’ve got to offset this somehow–either via reduction in other areas, or working out. And if I blow it one day, like I did yesterday (we went skiing and the matter exceeded my mind–before I knew it I was eating half a cheeseburger and some chili with cheese–which led me, along with a few other indulgences, to be OVER my daily allowance by 700+ calories–even after accounting for the calories I burned while skiing!!!) I can still see my progress for the week and work to offset the damage I did yesterday by eating well today and working out.

So today I “undid”, to a degree, the damage I did yesterday by being 700+ calories under my daily limit. It’s not a good practice to do this habitually for a lot of reasons, but if you have an off day like I did it really helped me figure out what I needed to do to get myself back on track again. And it’s a good reminder for me next time the consequence I have to pay by indulging at that moment of weakness.

Throughout my daily logs for the past month here’s what I’ve learned about myself personally as it relates to my wellness:

I can’t do it without exercise. It’s impossible.

At least for me it is.

EVEN IF I’m eating really well, without the exercise I’m still right around my daily allocation of calories (~2,200). But what happens is I’m usually still hungry at the end of the day and I’ll be frustrated with my progress because the results are not tangible enough–forget the fancy graphs, I can feel the lack of progress in my clothes, see it on my face, and feel it in my energy levels (despite consuming huge quantities of Xtra, it’s still not exercise in a bottle).

So I have succumbed to the very realization, which most of us already know but still sometimes need to prove to ourselves, that in order for me to achieve the level of wellness I want I simply have to work out.

Lose It is also a great reminder for me, that for some people this little tool can really help. Yet for others, this is just another worthless gadget that will go in the metaphorical closet and collect dust. But you don’t know unless you try, and then most importantly stick with it.

There’s a great exercise/fitness writer named Clarence Bass (www.cbass.com), he’s really quite talented. And I remember him stating in one of his exercise books the simple idea that if you can just get one or two ideas out of someone’s written work than that’s a victory, take what you think makes sense and leave the rest. That concept has really changed the way that I’ve read and studied, or listened to speeches or lectures, etc.

In the worst of moments, 95% of it might, indeed, be worthless and mind numbing. But amidst that time there might be 10% of something really noteworthy and a learning moment. Then, as my dad would say, “Grok the fullness”, and you’re all the better for it.

So today I’m laying claim to “Love It” for the program “Lose It”, which not only has helped get me back on track but has also given me a new appreciation for the ways that tools can help assist on the way to managing ourselves to a better, and healthier life.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all day. What is the most significant info you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless great for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

February 14, 2009March 26, 2009

Happy Valentine’s Day

Given the nature of the day, I thought I’d write a quick diddy about love.

Now, generally speaking, worldly love is pretty conditional. This is especially true with business love. In fact, it’s usually business lust (love). Business lust is the kind best expressed by the expression we all know:

“What have you done for me lately?”

There’s a good part of this sentence which is simply true and appropriate–it’s a “today” world. But beyond there needing to be performance today, there’s also another component we can exhibit.

This “business lust” is what, in our industry, I call “BV Love.”

BV, for those who don’t know, stands for Business Volume. It’s your points that you produce in direct selling. So the more points, the more you’re loved in this industry. That’s a commonality in most businesses, and it’s understandable. Even expected. To a degree.

Let me be clear, it’s absolutely VITAL that PERFORMANCE is both expected AND rewarded in any organization. In fact, one of the problems that most businesses have is there’s a socialistic tendency towards treating everyone the same in terms of reward or even employment, regardless of output (though that’s not driven by love, either; instead it’s usually complacency, that such mediocrity has risen to the middle or top ranks that nobody is accountable or interested in that difficult process).

As leaders, there’s an accountability we all share in performance. Beyond this, the only way we can accomplish the dreams and desires each of us have, as well as that of our teams, is to commit and excel. Commit and excel. Commit and excel. (no, I’m not stuttering).

Leaders need to deliver. And they must be recognized for this, significantly recognized. We need to demonstrate “here’s what good looks like”, so this is one of the things I try to intentionally do for those who perform. And then there’s a different application and approach for those who don’t perform. Love isn’t the absence of accountability–or just letting people do whatever they well please.

But today’s Valentine’s Day. And I’m talking about love, here, like the real stuff. And a big part of love is commitment. It’s so easy to love when the going is great. Or to love the big hitters, the high producers. But there’s a greater opportunity that we have to show love to those in our community.

What if, in the quest of trying to do something different in this industry, something that’s never been done before, it was a different type of love? What if there were love and admiration regardless of who you are…or WERE? We talk about it all the time, but the beauty of this is that we’re an industry of second, third, and tenth chances.

For those who are part of this community and culture, as I grow in this it (“it” being the cultural component) becomes more and more important. I’m not talking about us running around holding hands and singing campfire songs like “Kumbaya”.

But I am talking about creating a community of respect, compassion, and understanding regardless of who decides to join.

This is one of the things I really loved about playing Division III football, there was some EXCEPTIONAL talent among the Starters, some of them were phenomenal.

But anyone who wanted to play could, yet they also had to have a commitment to the team. We didn’t pursue people to play, though there were many that did. In fact, a lot tried, but it wasn’t for everybody. A good number quit along the way.

Which was fine. Because there was a special camaraderie shared among the team that was “all in”, REGARDLESS of whether they were a star or no, regardless of circumstances. In fact, one of the coolest parts of this is that I saw guys who had no business playing college football raise up to a level of performance that they could never have achieved without the rest of the team pushing and pulling them along.

Part of this became their own self-commitment that pushed them as well, in that they were commonly bonded and united to the team and felt an obligation to perform in whatever way they could. For most of these guys, it wasn’t on game day–but it was all the behind the scenes stuff, the practicing, the hustling, the cheering, that made the performance of the top performers all the better. THAT was the magic. And part of that was the love.

And that’s a key component of what I love here in the community we have, which is that it’s a team that’s comprised of performance, purpose, and commitment. As part of this team, we have some new additions to the organization–not just new people who have enrolled, but also an incredible group of people from a Company we just acquired–Matol. These are some wonderful people who are so excited to be welcomed into the team.

So, for all of you out there part of this Community, I want to give a simple Happy Valentine’s Day to each of you.

I’m committed to the performance of this organization, but I’m also equally committed to the people at all levels and ranks who share in this purpose and dream. Thanks for all that you do.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your doc. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all when. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good heartiness, it�s doubtless important for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.

February 11, 2009March 26, 2009

What’s the definition of a “Depression”?

This graph hits hard visually. Very hard. It’s a sobering reminder of the mess we’re in, and what won’t leave us soon. It’s not hopeless, at all, but it’s a reality of the challenges we’re facing in the United States, in Canada, and ultimately the effect being felt around the world. And next door.

Today I was speaking with a good friend. A really successful and exceptionally intelligent person, who is sideways financially. Very sideways, in a scary way. It was a painful story to hear; and it’s not that we don’t hear about these every day or read about them on the front page of every paper or website. It’s just that, well, when it touches someone you care about…it’s just a different level of emotion.

Perhaps President Truman said it best: “It’s a recession when your neighbor loses his job. And it’s a depression when you lose yours.”

I could feel the pain in the voice and experience of my friend, yet it’s not without great hope that I have for people just like him as a result of this industry.

My blog is a muse of leadership, culture, and business. A large part of my business writings, though not all, are about Relationship Marketing and specifically Univera. I can’t help it–I love this industry, it’s a powerhouse of opportunity.

Which is why the recession data isn’t all bad news.

There is, within this calamity, an opportunity.

Amidst the turmoil, some people–perhaps you–will become millionaires. Others will simply find a way to keep the mortgage paid off, or pay for college, or put food on the table. Some will find freedom. Others will regain the passion they have for life. And others still will reunite themselves with a purpose within business they didn’t know existed.

The reasons I love Relationship Marketing are simple: you can take control, rather than having control taken of you.

Look at the hundreds of thousands of people laid off every month, few of these people had control. In fact, ironically, 95% of the layoffs happen to the people that have the least control over their own destiny within their companies.

So, ultimately, part of this is about freedom. And I want you to have it too.

The reasons I love Univera as a business are simple as well.

1. Patented products that work. Over 150 patents are put to work over a multitude of products that change the way people live, look, and feel. We’ve got the best of a “single product lead” with Xtra, yet with a multitude of breakthrough products that are simply untouchable that add diversity and strength. Nobody in the industry matches these resources.

2. Resources. It’s easy to talk about joint ventures, co-licensing arrangements, partnerships, and collaborative or exclusive resources. But it’s totally different to talk about an integrated set of businesses; at Univera we often forget the power of the “Farm to Family” concept (for our core ingredients). A Company that has resources across all of the world touching a multitude of Continents–particularly great resources right here in North America in Lacey headquarters, which also houses some of the most talented and passionate people in Corporate America, that are working for you. And with you.

3. Compensation. There simply is not a better plan in this industry, that’s more balanced or more aggressive at all the key touchpoints in an Associates business. Our 2009 Plan, available at www.univera.com, highlights the major components that we’ve ADDED to the compensation plan to make it among the most competitive plans on the front and back end. Which means, ultimately, if you work you’ll get success early on. But, equally importantly, you’ll develop a powerful back end residual that builds for you the freedom you desire.

4. Culture, Heart, and Purpose. To a degree, the words could be synonyms. But we each have a definition of what that means.

Here, Culture is about integrity, respect, and listening. It’s about acts of service, it’s about teamwork and collaboration, and it’s about developing a set of relationships and an environment that’s unlike anything else. And it’s about changing the health and wellness of the World, or as we say “Bringing the Best of Nature to Humankind.”

If you’re all about money, you’ll not likely be a perfect fit here. You can do amazing things with the money from Univera for your family and humankind. But let’s all acknowledge that our life, including the time we spend during the day, can be so much more meaningful if done in conjunction with purpose and people with whom we care about–and care about us.

I see the decline in the graph, and on one hand it’s just another number and statistic. It could be sterilized and desensitized to be meaningless as we get calloused to the bad news. But, we can’t let it. It’s our society, it’s our friends, family, and neighbors that this all affects. It’s causing a transformational change that could lead to the biggest transformational change in our industry, and for our Company.

Margaret Meade said it best: “Never doubt that a small and committed group of people can change the world; indeed, it’s the only thing that ever has.”

I’m ready to change the world.

And that starts by simply taking the step to help change the life of those we come across every day.

No doubts, take Lasix only as prescribed by your physician. Levitra is one of the best-known medications of all date. What is the most significant information you must study about levitra vs cialis? Most doctors say the effectiveness of Levitra is well documented. Absolutely, a sexual problem refers to a problem during any phase of the sexual response cycle that prevents the individual from experiencing satisfaction from the sexual life. Whilst sex is not vital for good health, it�s doubtless significant for anyone. Why it happen? What kinds of professionals treat sexual diseases in men? A common class of antidepressants, which include Zoloft � can kill the mood in bedroom.